Before the pandemic, the stay-at-home idea conjured up the image of turning into a couch potato with a bag of fries and watching a series. When staying indoors became a mandate in 2020, people turned to home fitness sessions to break the monotony of working from home, which in turn increased the demand for home fitness equipment by 300% 500% led across the country.
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While the beginning of 2021 may seem more like the same, it is at a unique turning point. With the safety measures put in place by gyms, fitness enthusiasts get some relief to return to gyms safely, while some prefer to socially distance themselves from the safety of their homes or the vast outdoors. The response to the pandemic with a commitment to health and wellbeing has been steady throughout. This peculiar moment offers an exciting mix of workouts and promises something for everyone. There is no doubt that gyms will be the traditional modes for keeping fit. However, here are some other unconventional trends that we believe will be the way forward this year.
The great outdoors
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In India, the demand for bicycles has grown dramatically as people opt for ways to social distancing while exercising and taking a break from being at home. Long swimming, a brisk walk, and a steep hike are also great ways to keep active. A 2019 study in Scientific Reports found that just two hours outdoors with nature improves health and wellbeing. So don’t delay your visit to the neighborhood park any longer.
Fast training
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People are stretched thin as WFH and housework merge. Such short HIIT (high-intensity interval training) sessions bring a welcome, quick burst of energy to end the day. With gyms and service centers safely opening, HIIT exercise has become a preferred form of exercise as it improves blood flow, stimulates stem cell production, and expresses a heavyweight workout in minutes.
Practice mindfulness
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The lockdown has changed our collective perception of normalcy in unprecedented ways. This shock has led to an increased interest in achieving and maintaining mental wellbeing. It can be in the form of a choice to distance yourself from being on social media platforms or sticking to it yoga, Meditation and dancing. Ultimately, these activities will help reduce stress, improve your mood, and improve your flexibility. At the very least, it will definitely save your back from being hunched over the laptop for hours.
Virtually speaking and virtual challenges
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Whether fitness enthusiasts or beginners, many are looking for challenging and personalized programs. A virtual session can be less intimidating for beginners and is a convenient way to go through your weekly program. The shifting of responsibility into your hands can also be encouraging when it comes to staying motivated to reach your fitness goals, although trainers are still there to guide you through the session. When marathons and races were canceled, runners turned to virtual events to continue participating in community activities and did not let the pandemic put them down. As virtual events grow in importance, attendees are expected to attend such events and raise the bar for their personal best.
As you try to keep up with the trends, make sure you include activities that you really enjoy and look forward to dancing, biking, hiking, or surfing with family and friends To practice hula hooping.
